What is the difference between African Bustards – the Black-Bellied Bustard and the White-Bellied Bustard? The main differences are below:
The White-Bellied Bustard (Eupoditis senegalensis) and the Black-Bellied Bustard (Lissotis melanogaster or Eupoditis melanogaster) are both African bustards, widespread in Sub-Saharan Africa in grasslands and open woodlands.
The White-Bellied Bustard is smaller than the Black-Bellied Bustard. The White-Bellied Bustard is about 48-61 centimetres (19-24 inches) long. The Black-Bellied Bustard is about 58-65 centimetres (23-26 inches) long.
White-Bellied Bustard (left) and Black-Bellied Bustard (right)
Their bellies (stomachs) are different in colour. The White-Bellied Bustard has tawny brown feathers with white feathers on the belly. The Black-Bellied Bustard has black and brown feathers with black feathers on the belly.
Their beaks (bills) are different in colour. The White-Bellied Bustard has a pinkish-red bill and the Black-Bellied Bustard has a light yellow bill.
Their legs are different in colour. The White-Bellied Bustard has cream coloured legs. The Black-Bellied Bustard has dull yellow legs.
White-Bellied Bustard (left) and Black-Bellied Bustard (right)
White-Bellied Bustard
Black-Bellied Bustard
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM